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Although retrofit systems can be used for new building construction, they are primarily implemented in renovation projects due to their performance attributes, flexibility, ease of construction and ability to integrate with original systems.
Reasons for Retrofitting a Roof
There are many reasons for choosing an MBCI retrofit system for retrofitting an existing roof. You may need to replace a leaking roof, meet new regulation or code requirements, require structural changes, improve the aesthetics of a roof or correct the current roof geometry.
Flat roofs are naturally problematic. They lack the ability to effectively discharge rainwater to the roof’s edge so they retain moisture on the rooftop which can leak into the building’s interior. Because most flat roof weatherproofing membranes are hydrostatic in nature, they are subjected to a greater range of performance issues. Membranes such as built-up roofing must be expertly installed to provide a level surface to prevent water ponding. These membranes require continual maintenance to provide weathertightness assurance.
It is common for a building owner to spend an average of 12 cents per square foot each year on maintenance. Add to that the additional cost of a total roof replacement as the roof membrane reaches its life expectance of 15-19 years. Compare this to a metal roof that has minimal maintenance requirements and a life expectancy of more than 40 years. Due to the savings on maintenance expenses and a metal roof’s long life, a retrofit metal roof system will easily pay for itself over time.
As many companies grow, they often find they must expand their facilities which can result in challenging roof geometries. The flexibility of the MBCI Retrofit Framing System offers the owner the ability to work through these complex roofing issues.
Retrofitting is also an ideal solution to tackle the growing concerns around energy consumption. Energy efficiency regulations are being introduced throughout the country. Adding to the momentum, ASHRAE, a well-recognized and leading author of code standards, is aggressively addressing this issue and a large number of states and local municipalities have already adopted their guidelines. MBCI has systems designed that address retrofitting over existing metal roofs to upgrade to current building code requirements. These systems can be designed to increase the building's thermal efficiency by adding insulation between the old and new roof.
The proper framing design, metal roof system, insulation package and ventilation are important factors that will reduce your operating costs and provide a low maintenance roof for many years. In fact, metal roofing is now recognized by industry experts for having a 40-year or more life span compared to its nearest flat roof competitor at 20 years. |
